Comparison · Travel & Carry · 5 picks
Best Carry-On Luggage (2026): I Tested All 4 Types
Aluminum, hard-shell, vacuum compression or roller backpack? I travelled with all four. Here's which carry-on type fits how you travel.
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I’ve travelled with heavy aluminum luggage, a vacuum-sealed carry-on, a roller backpack and a plain hard-shell. The one I keep reaching for is the most boring. But boring isn’t right for everyone, so instead of comparing logos, here’s what each type of carry-on gives you and what it costs you.
How to choose
- Want it to look premium and protect your stuff, and weight doesn’t bother you? Go aluminum. Pick a dark color.
- Always overpack? Go vacuum compression. Watch the weight.
- On a budget, or lots of stairs? A roller backpack, ideally with a second backpack.
- Everyone else: a simple hard-shell. Light, simple, nothing to think about. Add separate compression bags if you need them.
One more thing nobody mentions: the new trend of handles as wide as the case (LEVEL8 Voyageur, MVST Zero) means you can’t slide a backpack over the handle. The inside packs flatter, but if you always travel with a backpack, a traditional handle is easier.
Best for most people
LEVEL8 Voyageur 20" Carry-On
A plain polycarbonate hard-shell. 43 L at about 8.1 lb, so the weight you save goes to clothes. Smooth wheels, solid zippers, built-in TSA lock. My only complaints: no wheel lock, and the wide handle won't take a backpack sleeve.
Best aluminum on a budget
MVST Treva Aluminum Carry-On
A Rimowa look-alike for about a quarter of the price. Built like a vault with very satisfying latches. The cost is weight (9.4–10.8 lb empty) and scratches. Get a darker color so the scuffs don't show.
Best aluminum design
MVST Zero Aluminum Carry-On
MVST's newer version: matte finish, single-latch hinge and a completely flat interior. The flush handle is the trade-off.
Best if you overpack
BlackVoyage AirCabin Pro 20" Carry-On
Two removable vacuum compression bags built in, about $60 extra and worth it. Plus a wheel lock. Just keep an eye on your airline's weight limit, because you'll be packing a lot more.
Best budget / roller backpack
Bagsmart Blast Pro 43L Roller Backpack
A 43 L roller with hidden backpack straps and a wheel cover, so you can roll it through the terminal and carry it up stairs. The full kit with a second backpack is about $300.
Questions people ask
What is the best type of carry-on luggage?
For most people, a simple polycarbonate hard-shell. It's light, tough enough and you don't have to think about it. Go aluminum for looks and protection, vacuum compression if you overpack, and a roller backpack for budgets and stairs.
Is aluminum luggage worth it?
Only if you love the look and rarely hit weight limits. Aluminum carry-ons weigh 9.4 to 10.8 lb empty, scratch easily and need two latches undone every time you open them.
How much do carry-on suitcases weigh?
The ones I tested ranged from about 8.1 lb (LEVEL8 Voyageur) to 10.8 lb (MVST aluminum). With a 15 lb airline limit, a heavy case can use up two-thirds of your allowance.